The impact of <scp>COVID</scp> ‐19 on college students' socio‐emotional competencies and academic performance

Abstract This study explores the relationship between socio‐emotional competencies (SEC) and academic performance (AP) during two phases of the COVID‐19 pandemic: Fall 2020 and Fall 2021. A sample of 112 college students (M = 22.55, SD = 5.11) completed a retrospective survey on their SEC and AP. Results showed lower SEC and AP at the pandemic's peak, with improvement by Fall 2021. Female students reported higher SEC and AP at both points. Notably, relationship management was more strongly linked to AP in Fall 2020, while self‐awareness and decision‐making became key in Fall 2021, highlighting shifting student needs during prolonged crises.